Have you ever had someone do something they think is small but it actually had a big impact on you? For me, that happened after I scored my very first varsity goal in hockey. I got home and I saw that I had an email from someone who I had never really talked to before. It was reading teacher Suzanne Semborski congratulating me and telling me to keep working hard. Since the email, I have started to talk to her more. I noticed that it isn’t just me going to talk to her but many other students as well.
“At the beginning of each year I can see that some kids aren’t thrilled about being in a reading class, but I do my best to make connections and help everyone make progress and have fun,” says Semborski.
Semborski’s goal is to make every student feel comfortable around her, whether it’s a student in her class, advisory, or just stopping by. She does this by not allowing any negativity. She also allows athletes to put their sports bags in her room during the school day.

Sophomore Anthony Lia struggled with reading and had a negative reaction when he first found out he was going to be in her reading class.
“I was embarrassed at first, but after hearing good things about Semborski and the class, I felt better. She told us right away that we shouldn’t be embarrassed because it happens to a lot of kids. Her main goal is to do what she can to help all of her students,” said Lia.
Semborski has helped Lia keep through giving advice and keeping his head up. She shows her support for Lia through the various activities he’s involved in.
Any students interested in getting to know Semborski can always stop by as she’s willing to talk to anyone. There is also the course option for students interested in a career in education called reading or peer mentor.